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How to Fix Wired Ethernet Not Working on Windows
Applies to: Windows 11, Windows 10, Docking Stations, USB-C Hubs
Article Type: Troubleshooting
Last Updated: 2026-07-10
Summary
Wired Ethernet provides the fastest, most stable internet connection — until it suddenly stops working. If you've plugged in an Ethernet cable but your computer is still using Wi-Fi (or has no internet at all), this guide will help you find and fix the problem.
Symptoms
- You plug in an Ethernet cable, but the network icon in the taskbar still shows Wi-Fi or a disconnected globe icon
- Windows says "Unidentified network" or "No Internet access"
- Your docking station connects your monitors and USB devices, but the internet doesn't work
Prerequisites
- An Ethernet cable plugged into your computer (or docking station) and the wall jack (or router)
Instructions
1. Check the Physical Connections
A loose cable is the number one cause of Ethernet failures.
- Unplug both ends of the Ethernet cable (from your computer/dock and from the wall or router).
- Look at the plastic clip on the end of the cable. If the small plastic tab is broken off, the cable won't sit securely and needs to be replaced.
- Plug both ends back in. You should hear a distinct "click" when the cable seats properly.
- Look for lights: Most Ethernet ports have two small LED lights next to them. If the cable is connected and receiving data, you will see a solid green/orange light and a blinking light. If it's completely dark, the port is dead or the cable is broken.
2. Disable Wi-Fi to Force the Ethernet Connection
Sometimes Windows gets confused when both Wi-Fi and Ethernet are available and tries to use the weaker Wi-Fi signal.
- Click the network icon (Wi-Fi or globe) in the bottom right corner of your taskbar.
- Click the Wi-Fi button to turn it off.
- Wait 10 seconds.
- Check if the network icon changes to the Ethernet symbol (a computer monitor with a plug next to it). If it does, you're connected.
3. Restart the Network Adapter
If Windows doesn't recognize the cable, resetting the software adapter often fixes it.
- Click the Start button and type
ncpa.cpl, then press Enter. This opens the Network Connections window. - Find the icon labeled Ethernet (it might also say the name of your docking station, like "Realtek USB GbE").
- Right-click the Ethernet icon and select Disable.
- Wait 5 seconds until the icon turns grey.
- Right-click it again and select Enable.
- Wait for Windows to identify the network.
4. Troubleshoot Docking Station Ethernet
If your Ethernet cable is plugged into a USB-C docking station or dongle, rather than directly into the laptop:
- Unplug the dock from your laptop and plug it back in.
- Check if the Ethernet cable is plugged into the correct port on the dock (some docks have two similar-looking ports, but only one is for Ethernet).
- If you have a secondary USB-C port on your laptop, try moving the dock's cable to the other port.
- See How to Set Up a Docking Station with Your Laptop for more docking station tips.
5. Run the Windows Network Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in tool that can automatically reset your IP address and clear out network jams.
On Windows 11:
- Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Click Run next to Network and Internet.
- Follow the prompts.
On Windows 10:
- Open Settings > Network & Internet > Status.
- Click Network troubleshooter.
- Select Ethernet and follow the prompts.
Troubleshooting
WARNING
If your computer says "Unidentified network" while you are at the office, the port in the wall might be deactivated for security reasons. IT teams often disable unused wall ports to prevent unauthorized access. You'll need to submit a ticket to have the port activated.
| Symptom / Error | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No lights on the Ethernet port | Broken cable or dead port | Try a different cable; if at the office, ask IT to check the wall port |
| "Unidentified network" | Computer isn't receiving an IP address | Run the Network Troubleshooter; in the office, ask IT to activate the wall port and quote the number printed on its faceplate |
| "Network cable unplugged" but it is plugged in | Broken plastic tab on cable | Replace the Ethernet cable |
| Docking station Ethernet fails repeatedly | Outdated dock firmware | Contact IT to update the docking station's firmware/drivers |
| Internet works via Wi-Fi but not Ethernet | Corporate security policy | The wall port may be disabled; request activation from IT |